>> kristol's argument is rice has appeared more interventionist than john kerry. so the softening does not mean an end to the partisan battle over benghazi. republicans made it clear if rice is nominated they plan to make her confirmation hearing a proxy fight for their sustained prosecution of what they believe is the poor response to the september 11th attack. >> when she comes over, if she does, a lot of questions asked of her about this event and others. we're going to hold people accountable for a major national security breakdown three weeks before the election. that is our job. >> why did the administration think it had to cover up all of the things that occurred before by putting out to the american people the narrative that i think will be absolutely false? >> some republicans privately suggest the shift in the tone is a function of pragmatism that with just 45 seats in the senate, a filibuster of rice's nomination is much tougher to achaef. one senate aide told the associated press, quote, there's a definite sense within the caucus that you have to be co